Speaking of Psychology

Why our attention spans are shrinking, with Gloria Mark, PhD

Feb 8, 2023
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INSIGHT

Defining Attention

  • William James defined attention as focusing on one thing out of many.
  • However, attention is more nuanced, involving engagement and challenge levels.
INSIGHT

Shrinking Attention Spans

  • Studies show attention spans have decreased from 150 seconds in 2004 to 47 seconds recently.
  • The median attention span is even shorter, at 40 seconds.
INSIGHT

Impact of Short Attention

  • Short attention spans correlate with higher stress, more errors, and slower performance due to switch costs.
  • Each attention switch requires reorientation, consuming mental resources.
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